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The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has officially begun advancing several large-scale projects aimed at expanding and upgrading the country’s aviation infrastructure. New airports are being planned for Mirpur (Azad Kashmir), Dera Ismail Khan, and Hyderabad, while Sukkur Airport is set for a full-scale reconstruction to position it as a regional aviation hub for northern Sindh.
This ambitious plan is part of a broader national strategy to enhance regional connectivity, modernize transport facilities, and bolster economic growth in underserved areas.
Mirpur Airport: Feasibility Nearing Completion
In Mirpur, located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the PAA is nearing completion of a comprehensive feasibility study for the construction of a new airport. This facility is expected to significantly improve access to Azad Kashmir, especially for overseas Pakistanis and domestic travelers from nearby regions.
Land acquisition is already underway, and local authorities are reportedly working in coordination with federal agencies to finalize location and infrastructure details.
Dera Ismail Khan Airport to Boost Southern KP
The Dera Ismail Khan airport project has also moved into the initial development stage, with land acquisition in progress, according to official sources. The airport is expected to address longstanding connectivity issues in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, providing easier access to neighboring districts and potentially stimulating business and tourism in the region.
This new airport will be a critical transport link for areas that have long depended on lengthy road journeys to reach air services in other cities.
Hyderabad to Resume Flights, Launch Aviation Training School
In a significant step for Sindh’s second-largest city, Hyderabad authorities have been instructed to resume commercial flight operations. In addition, plans are underway to establish an aviation training school, which will support local skill development and provide career pathways in the aviation industry.
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Hyderabad’s air connectivity was suspended years ago, leaving a gap in domestic air travel within the province. The revival of operations is expected to benefit both passengers and the local economy.
Sukkur Airport Set for Major Overhaul
The reconstruction of Sukkur Airport is another centerpiece of the PAA’s development plan. The aim is to transform the facility into a full-service regional hub, capable of handling increased domestic and future international traffic. This upgrade is particularly significant for upper Sindh, a region that has seen limited air connectivity.
According to a briefing delivered to the National Assembly, the upgraded Sukkur Airport will serve not only as a passenger hub but may also support cargo operations, boosting trade activity in the region.
International Consultants Involved in Planning and Design
To ensure global standards and operational efficiency, the PAA has engaged international aviation consultants from Japan and Switzerland for the design and planning phases of the projects. These collaborations aim to incorporate modern airport layouts, smart infrastructure, and sustainable development practices.
The involvement of foreign experts underscores the government’s commitment to quality, safety, and long-term scalability of these new and upgraded facilities.
Strategic Push to Modernize Aviation Infrastructure
This multi-city development initiative is part of a strategic push by the government to enhance national aviation capacity, reduce regional disparities, and meet growing passenger demand. By expanding to underserved regions, the PAA aims to strengthen socio-economic integration, promote tourism, and improve emergency access and mobility.
The projects are also expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and operational phases, with a focus on local hiring and training.
